Calories during your period

I started my period this morning and for the last few days I've been more hungry. I don't mean the usual craving chocolate kind of hungry, but a gnawing feeling before lunch that for me, usually signifies true hunger.

So, I was wondering whether I do actually need more calories during my period to support my body going through this process?

Or, am I just bowing to the cravings and misinterpreting these feelings/wanting an excuse to eat more, because Im bloated and miserable?! 

Thanks!

Hi Cassie, 

that's a very interesting thing you are talking about. I know that I am craving special things before my 'happy days' and its usually calcium rich food. My gyn told me that this would be good as the body is losing calcium during your period. So I now try to build in more yoghurt, milk or cheese in my diet - especially before those days. 

Also I know that the female body is retaining water within the week before the period. Maybe this has something to do with your hunger? But its just a guess. Nothing scientifically proven. 

You might want to allow yourself 100 cal more per day before your period - it's not that much but if your body feels the need ... why not have it!

I am sure 100 cal per day won't ruin your diet and it might be the yoghurt or whatever that keeps you happy until lunch time! :o)  

I'm not sure of an actual need to fuel your body with more calories during your period, but if you feel hungry, you should listen to your body.

Maybe you should add an extra snack in between breakfast and lunch to quell your hunger and go for a light walk in the evening. From my personal experience, exercise helps alleviate cramps. :)

I think I remember reading an article somewhere about burning approximately 200-300 calories more than usual on your period. Don't quote me on it though - I also remember a debate at the end of the article about how valid it is. I'll post a link if i find it

Original Post by t0n4r1n0t0t0r0:

I think I remember reading an article somewhere about burning approximately 200-300 calories more than usual on your period. Don't quote me on it though - I also remember a debate at the end of the article about how valid it is. I'll post a link if i find it

Yeah, thats something I also vaguely remember hearing but wasn't sure if it was an urban myth or not!

I think I'll just go with mermaid3011 and mbali91's suggestions and eat a bit more, 100-200 can;t do that much damage! Thanks everyone!